The cities of Micah’s homeland

Continuing from last time. The cities of Micah’s homeland are about to be destroyed by the invasion of the Assyrian army. Micah takes up the meanings of the towns’ names and uses them to create “paronomasia (wordplay).” His purpose is to express the pain of his heart more deeply and poetically.

(4) “The inhabitant of Zaanan does not escape.” “Zaanan” means “to come out.” Paraphrased, it means, “The residents of the town whose name means ‘coming out’ do not even come out to fight in self-defense; they are cowards.” (5) “The mourning of Beth-ezel: ‘He will take from you its sopport.’” “Beth-ezel” means “neighboring town.” Paraphrased, it means, “Even the neighboring town, on which you depended, has begun to wail, and no help can be expected from there.” (6) “For the inhabitant of Maroth waits for something good, because a disaster has come down from the Lord to the gate of Jerusalem.” “Maroth” means “bitter.” Paraphrased, it means, “The residents of this town had been waiting for good to come, but when they saw the enemy advancing even to Jerusalem, they began to taste bitterness.” Note that Micah does not say that Jerusalem will be destroyed. (7) “Harness the chariot to the team of horses, you inhabitant of Lachish – she was the beginning of sin to the daughter of Zion – because in you were found the rebellious acts of Israel.” The meaning of “Lachish” is not entirely clear, but it may refer to “a swift camel” or “a racing camel.” Paraphrased, it means, “O residents of Lachish, it is dangerous to remain in the city, so flee swiftly, like the fast camels suggested by your city’s name.” The phrase, “She was the beginning of sin to the daughter of Zion – because in you were found the rebellious acts of Israel,” indicates that Lachish was the first among the cities of Judah to adopt idolatry. (8) “Therefore you will give parting gifts in behalf of Moresheth-gath.” “Moresheth-gath” means “possession” or “inheritance.” This was the hometown of the prophet Micah. Paraphrased, it means, “Lachish, facing great difficulty, will eventually send messengers with gifts to Moresheth-gath, which is under Philistine control, pleading to be protected from the Assyrian army.” (9) “The houses of Achzib will become a deception to the kings of Israel.” “Achzib” means “deception.” Paraphrased, it means, “Contrary to expectations, Achzib did not become a source of help.” (10) “Moreover, I will bring on you the one who takes possession, you Inhabitant of Mareshah.” “Mareshah,” like “Moresheth,” means “possession” or “inheritance.” This town will become a possession for the enemy. (11) “The glory of Israel will enter Adullam.” Adullam is well known as the town where David fled (1 Samuel 22:1). The enemy who conquers Mareshah will next advance as far as Adullam.

If we were told in advance of the destruction of our own city, what kind of action would we take? Blessed is the one who offers intercessory prayer with tears for the salvation of his homeland.